NEW 2014 CASCADIA

Freightliner says its 2014 Cascadia Evolution, with improved Detroit DD15 power, delivers as much as a 7% improvement in fuel economy over an EPA 2010-compliant Cascadia equipped with first-generation aerodynamics.

The new model sports some of the most advanced aerodynamic enhancements in the industry, the company claims, adding that it even beats a current-model 2013 Cascadia equipped with the latest aero upgrades. By a solid 5%.

The Evolution’s aerodynamic features were developed using Daimler Trucks North America’s own wind tunnel – the only full-scale, OEM-owned and -operated wind tunnel for big rigs in North America. The truck was also extensively tested on highways throughout the U.S.

You’ll see several frontal-area updates designed to improve airflow and aerodynamics including a new air dam, bumper closure, and a hood-to-bumper fill.  

There’s also an improved windshield seal, elliptical-shaped aerodynamic mirrors, and an integrated antenna. New wheel covers on the rear tandem, chassis side fairings, and 20-in. side extenders further contribute to efficiency.

Cooling enhancements include a 1400-sq-in. radiator with a revised baffling system and new mounting design that are said to improve cooling capacity and increase durability.

Standard equipment includes Freightliner’s proprietary Run Smart Predictive Cruise system. It evaluates the road profile more than a mile in advance, determines the most efficient vehicle speed, and then adjusts the actual speed of the truck for maximum fuel efficiency.

Available only in the Cascadia Evolution, the newly designed DD15 engine features a proprietary asymmetric turbocharger with a next-generation ‘amplified common rail’ fuel system (ACRS). The asymmetric turbocharger is said to be less complex than variable-geometry turbos and, because it’s proprietary, the company says it’s “optimally matched” to the DD15’s EGR system for best fuel consumption. The ACRS delivers higher injection pressure for better combustion control and a simplified design for optimal regenerations.  

Usefully, the new DD15 is more than 100 lb lighter than its predecessor. It includes an improved fuel-filter module with two filters that deliver lower maintenance costs with a 100,000-mile filter-change interval.  The engine also features a variable-speed water pump that allows for lower impeller speeds, meaning a smaller parasitic load.  

The Detroit Virtual Technician system is standard on the Cascadia Evolution. It helps reduce downtime by providing real-time engine diagnostics, enabling drivers and fleet managers to evaluate events quickly and accurately. It also minimizes time in the shop, says Detroit.

The new Cascadia joins a lineup of fully compliant GHG14 vehicles. DTNA’s complete portfolio of model year 2013 on-highway, vocational and medium-duty vehicles was certified by the Environmental Protection Agency as fully compliant with the new GHG14 regulations. DTNA is alone with this certification.

Production will start in 2013.


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